Final Design : RF remote controled relay for an alarm.

Hi everyone,
                     it's been a while since I last updated but that's a good thing. I've been pretty busy all around with a new job and plenty of projects for you guys to see. I'm also really happy to say that my "RF remote controlled relay" is working outstandingly well. I didn't expect such a long range effectiveness. I literally get more than 500'' in open space with the Xbee Pro 2.4 Ghz. Since the remote is mostly use outside, in a open field, i'm able to get a great stable serial bandwidth of 19600 baud rate.

 I will soon upload some pictures, documentation and source code concerning how I was able to create a "software network" that automatically verify the quality of the wireless link dynamically between the two Arduino/Xbee pair.

The source code is presently very "drafty" and not really optimized yet.

You could use this little base to build your own thing ! Want a multifunction remote that power-on your computer, lights and A/C in your dorm from the floor below ? Make it! All you need to do is re-use and/or modify it and hook a power bar to your relay (make sure to check the max A/C current and Voltage). (You might need to change the time (delay) that the relay is "ON" .

Note that my project files also include the necessary code to display status, messages, or whatever you would like using the Liquid Crystal Library (comes with the Arduino IDE)  on a simple 16x2 LCD (learn the how-to here).

Source code, pictures and documentation coming soon...

Concept : RF remote controled relay for an alarm.

             Hi everyone,
                                 I am currently starting a new project. I will design a system which will be able to create a wireless communication (Xbee RF) between two Arduino Duemilanova. One of those will be the equivalent of a remote control and the other will listen to the signal and start an alarm momentarily when it will receive the signal.

I need this system to work on a large terrain. I did some research and found out that the Xbee Pro 2.4Ghz can work up to 1 mile on a uninterrupted signal (line of sight). I personally prefer the serie 1 of the Xbee module because of their ease of setup and use.

In order to interface the Xbee with ease, I will need two Xbee breakout boards (like those from Sparkfun).

As for the alarm in itself, I only need to switch it on and off, like an interrupter, so I will be using a simple digital relay which will then be plugged directly into the receiving arduino/xbee device.

With all those component, all I am missing is an user interface for the remote controller. I will be using a simple LCD display to give information about the system and a nice illuminated push button I found on Digikey.

The code should be simple enough, one the link between the Xbee is up and running, all I need is a digital output that open and close the relay.

I will post more details / photos and stuffs shortly.

L-p